Cholus zonatus

Cholus zonatus is a species of weevil belonging to the order Coleoptera and the family Curculionidae. This insect is recognized as a specialized pest that primarily impacts pineapple plantations, posing a significant challenge to agricultural productivity in regions where this fruit is cultivated.

The primary host plant for this pest is the pineapple (Ananas comosus). The beetle targets the plant's development, with its activities leading to substantial losses in both the quantity and quality of the harvested fruit, which is particularly concerning for commercial exporters.

The biology of Cholus zonatus involves a complete metamorphosis cycle comprising egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages. Females lay their eggs directly into the tissue of the pineapple or leaf bases. Upon hatching, the larvae bore deep into the plant tissues, feeding internally, which keeps them protected from most environmental stressors and external predators.

The damage caused by this pest is primarily internal. Larval feeding creates tunnels within the pineapple fruit, which often results in fruit rot and the secondary establishment of fungal or bacterial pathogens. This feeding activity not only destroys the marketability of the crop but can also lead to the total collapse of individual plants if the stem is compromised.

Effective management and control measures for this pest include:

• Implementing systematic field monitoring to detect early signs of adult presence.
• Prompt removal and destruction of infested fruit and debris to break the life cycle.
• Applying targeted insecticide sprays during peak periods of adult activity.
• Ensuring the use of certified, clean planting material for new fields.
• Practicing rigorous crop hygiene to limit the build-up of pest populations.